[cparkhill]

I am needing some help trying to figure out how to replace the junk inside the steering column that works the ignition switch. I have the steering wheel off, the top and bottom covers, the key cylinder assembly out, and the gear and top rod (plastic) pulled out. I can't figure out how to get the lower parts out of the column and this is where it is broken as everything else appears to be okay. What connects the top parts to the bottom? There is a hole in the end of the top plastic piece. Is this supposed to be connected to a rod or what? What do you call this stuff? Help!!!! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shrug.gif

 

[cparkhill]

sorry about the repost The truck is a 96 f350 psd.

 

[94_turbo]

try and check the archives--the whole top of the column has to come apart--there some pivot pins on the sides--they are tapped for a small bolt--thread a bolt in there--and they pull out--butt--the column is spring loaded---harder to explain then do---

 

[lawnboy1988]

Ok, I think I know what you're talking about. I had a 95 f-350 do this a while back. Will the truck not shut off, or does it feel like there is no resistance when you turn the key both forwards and backwards. Also, do you have a tilt steering wheel? When you turn the key to the cranking position a small plastic actuator rod (piece), which is directly behind the key cylinder, moves another small metal rod that connects the upper half of the column to the bottom. The metal rod goes in a slot that can move when you tilt the wheel and still connect the top to the bottom. The metal rod is what fell out on the truck I was working on, and made the truck not shut off. The ignition switch is actually a white box with a big connector on it and its on the bottom of the column, towards the firewall. (FWIW, I completely took out the column, unbolted it from the dash, and unbolted the steering shaft. It's MUCH easier to work on when its out of the truck!) I believe your problem is the rod that fell out in my truck, it's a small rod about an inch long, and it just presses into the top plastic piece. Hope this helps!

 

[DevoK12RS]

Sounds like earlier models except the references to plastic here. You don't need a Pivot Pin Puller, but you do need to pull the pins. I rummaged thru my bolt supply until I found a match. Hook a hammer claw over the bolt head and lightly tap it with another. Comes out easy. Job is not too difficult, but annoying.
This view may help. You're likely needing to replace the Lower Actuator between the Upper Actuator and the Ignition Rod.
Lastly, my Upper Cover Casting seem to be a press fit. I had to tap it off with a rubber mallet- hadn't seen that mentioned anywhere.
HTH,
Devo

 

[cparkhill]

Re: many thanks

I greatly appreciate the info. Looks like the 2 torx screws that hold the top part of the column to the bottom part needs to be removed as turbo 94 said. If I do that will I be able to get to the parts inside the column housing and is there anything I should look out for? How hard will it be to get that spring back in underneath?